So and Neither

Question

If we say "I was keen on pop" then we say "So was I" easy the same aux verb. If I say "I like chocolate" We say "So do I" How do I now what Aux verb to use. I know but what is the rule? Thanks for any help Dan

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

AnonymousHow do I now what Aux verb to use. I know but what is the rule?

It is a matter of 'be' vs all the other verbs.

I am happy — So are we.
I ate a penguin — So did we.

Philip · Answer

Mister Micawber AnonymousHow do I now what Aux verb to use. I know but what is the rule?It is a matter of 'be' vs all the other verbs.I am happy — So are we.I ate a penguin — So did we.

Thanks, MM. I was afraid to post, as I wasn't sure the answer was so simple.

CalifJim · Answer

PhilipI wasn't sure the answer was so simple

It's all in the interpretation. Nothing was asked nor answered concerning the auxiliary 'have' or any of the modals. That sort of question would have complicated things.

CJ

CalifJim · Answer

AnonymousI know but what is the rule?

That's an interesting remark. If you know, you should be able to come up with a pretty good statement of a rule, although if you already know, maybe you don't need it stated in a rule anyway.

CJ

RandomGuy · Answer

AnonymousHow do I know what Aux verb to use?

If the main verb of the ‘original utterance’ is an auxiliary, use that one. If it’s a lexical verb, use dummy do.

I am exhausted. – So am I.
I’m not tired yet. – Neither am I.

I can juggle. – So can I.
I can’t juggle. – Neither can I.

I have been to the circus. – So have I.
I have never been to the circus. – Neither have I.

I like chocolate milk. – So do I.
I don’t like chocolate milk. – Neither do I.

So and Neither

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